Once you have a good specimen, providing them with the proper care will increase their chances of survival and reblooming. Adequate lighting is vital for the survival of an orchid.
"Phalaenopsis orchids can survive in a low-light space," says Palomares. However, the more bright, indirect light it receives, the longer the blooms will last and the greater the chances for rebloom. "Be sure to put it into a window that gets a tickle of direct sun," suggests Satch, "Up to three hours of direct sunbeams or a full day of dappled sunbeams is ideal."
Orchids like their temperature, watering schedule, and light to be stable. "Too much of a deviation in any direction leads to bud blast – spontaneous death of the flower buds," explains Satch.
Orchids also like their media to stay moist, not soggy. "Orchids are also considered air plants, or epiphytes, and do not grow in soil," says Palomares, "They are typically potted with moss or even rocks."
To keep the medium moist, top dress with sphagnum and spritz often when it dries out, especially during blooming. It's ok to allow the medium to dry out somewhat between waterings but it should be watered before it's fully dry. There is no need to fertilize orchids while they are blooming.
"Under proper care, blooms will last for two months or more before fading," says Palomares. My Phalaenopsis produced blooms on new spikes that forked off the main spike for nearly six months!